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Burglary is at an all time low in Lancashire and has been for quite a few years. We'd like to keep it that way and have put together some tips for you that will help to keep your home extra safe.

What should you do to keep your home safe?

Fit burglar alarms that people can see and good outside lighting. Test them frequently to make sure they work.

Fit key-operated locks to all windows.

When you go out, always lock the door and close the windows - even if you are just going out for a short time.

Fit dead locks to the doors and don't leave the keys where they can be seen or reached through the letter box - keep them out of sight.

Make sure the side gate and shed are locked.

Leave a light on in a room and remember to draw the curtains when you go out at night.

Install security lights to light up the front porch and/or the garden.

What other measures should you consider to keep your home safe?

Marking important and expensive items with your postcode and house number using special security markers. Keep a record of the make, model and serial numbers of all electrical equipment.

Taking photographs of valuable property because if the police recover them after a burglary, this will be proof that they are yours.

Make sure callers to your home are genuine. Always ask for ID.

Keep shrubs, hedges and large plants cut back. They can provide a screen for thieves to work behind.

Keeping your boundary fences, walls and gates in good repair

Buy home insurance. It's cheaper than paying out to replace any stolen possessions. Remember: if you don't lock your house, your insurance may not cover you.

Keeping an eye on your neighbour's property and encourage them to do the same for you. Report anything suspicious to the police.

What is a Bogus Caller?

Bogus callers are people who pretend to be someone they're not so that they can get into your house. They might pretend to be from the water, electricity or gas-board, council workers or police officers and although Lancashire is a pretty safe place, it is important that you take care over who you let in.

How can you stop it happening to you?

STOP

Before you answer the door, stop and think if you are expecting anyone. Make sure your back door and any other doors leading outside are locked before you go to the front door.

CHAIN

Open the door with the chain or door bar in place. A door bar or chain acts as a useful barrier when talking to unexpected callers. Talk through a window if you can.

CHECK

Always ask for ID. Genuine callers will always have identification. If you are still uncertain, phone the organisation and confirm the person's identity. Genuine callers will be happy to wait. Some companies also have password protection schemes where they will supply you with a password that only you and the caller will know.